The term “Palace” has its roots in ancient Rome
It might be surprising, but the word ‘palace’ originated from Ancient or Classical Rome. This ancient city is famously associated with its seven hills: Aventine, Caelian, Capitoline, Quirinal, Viminal, Esquiline, and Palatine. The term ‘Palatine’ is derived from the Latin ‘Mons Palatinus,’ and it’s on this hill that Rome is believed to have been founded by Romulus.
This area evolved into a pivotal and central hub of Roman governance. In ancient times, the hill itself gave rise to its name, ‘Palatinus,’ derived from the Latin term ‘Palatium,’ meaning ‘place of strength and power.’ It is from this very word that the term ‘palace’ ultimately derived. Quite intriguing, isn’t it?
The original function or purpose of the Pantheon remains a mystery
After the Battle of Actium, which was a decisive naval confrontation between Octavius and the combined fleet of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, the Roman statesman and military leader, Marcus Agrippa, initiated the construction of the Pantheon. This construction is estimated to have commenced around 31 BC.
Although the Pantheon is often assumed to be a temple dedicated to the gods, this contradicts the typical practice in Roman culture where each temple was usually devoted to a single deity. For instance, the Garni Temple in Armenia is specifically dedicated to Helios, the sun god. While the original purpose of the Pantheon remains uncertain, it remains an awe-inspiring structure.
The Forum Romanum
Situated in the low-lying area between the Capitoline and Palatine Hills, you’ll discover the Roman Forum. During ancient times, this site served as a bustling hub within the empire. Merchants and traders would converge here with their goods, making it a vital center for trade and the city’s economy.
Interestingly, while the term ‘forum’ today signifies a place for discussing various topics, the Latin word ‘foro’ originally meant ‘market.’ It is plausible that the Roman Forum served dual roles: initially as a marketplace for trade and commerce, and secondly, as a venue for discussions and conversational exchanges. It also hosted election campaigns.
The number of inhabitants
Although the world’s population has significantly increased compared to ancient times, there is not a substantial disparity between the current population of Rome and its ancient counterpart. As of 2017 statistics, Rome is estimated to have approximately 2.8 million residents.
In the 1st century, it is believed that the city had a population of around 1 million residents. During this period, numerous people were drawn to the city due to its wealth and the security provided by its fortified walls. Unfortunately, the city’s population gradually declined in the subsequent centuries, following its capture and multiple plagues.
The resting place of Raphael
This renowned artist was not born in Rome but in Urbino, a town that has retained much of its Renaissance-era character. Raffaello Sanzo, commonly known as Raphael, was an Italian Renaissance painter celebrated for masterpieces like “The School of Athens” and “Portrait of a Lady with a Unicorn.”
Although Raphael was not originally from Rome, he made significant contributions to Roman landmarks, including creating frescoes on the ceilings of the Chigi Chapel and Saint Peter’s Basilica. Prior to his interment, Raphael expressed his desire to be buried in the Pantheon, indicating his ultimate wish to rest eternally in this historic city.
The Steps of the Spanish Square
These iconic staircases stand as a fundamental monument in the historic city, and it’s rare to find tourists in Rome who haven’t visited this remarkable location. Although known as the Spanish Steps, they have no Spanish origin and are entirely of Roman heritage. Constructed between 1723 and 1725, even before the establishment of the country of Italy, they were dedicated to a Spanish ambassador who resided in close proximity to the stairs.
This implies that the stairs are approximately three centuries old. These steps carry a rich history of their own and have predictably made appearances in the movie “Roman Holiday.” It’s worth noting that eating is prohibited on these stairs, despite their 135-step length.
The Legendary Establishment
Considering the Roman mythological tale of Romulus and Remus being nurtured by a she-wolf, the precise circumstances and date of the city’s foundation remain shrouded in uncertainty. According to legend, the brothers Romulus and Remus were both abandoned and subsequently adopted by this untamed creature.
In Rome, the sculpture known as the Lupa Capitolina depicts a moment where the two boys are depicted drinking from the she-wolf’s milk. The brothers had the intention of founding the city, but a heated dispute arose regarding its name. Tragically, Romulus killed his brother, leading to the city’s establishment in 753 BC.
The Birth of Rome
If we adhere to the legend surrounding the foundation of Rome, then it implies that on April 21, 2023, Rome marked its 2,775th anniversary. That’s an impressive age and certainly a cause for celebration. It also suggests that it was likely a fantastic destination to visit, particularly if you enjoy decorations and festivities.
On this significant day, the museums opened their doors for free, and the festivities included historical reenactments and parades, offering a wealth of attractions. Additionally, if you happened to visit the Pantheon, you would have witnessed the breathtaking spectacle of sunlight streaming in at noon, creating a truly mesmerizing scene. For those fortunate enough to be present, it must have been an unforgettable experience.
The Eccentric Reign of Emperor Caligula
The Emperor’s notoriety certainly precedes him, and it’s far from favorable, especially for the Roman senators who desperately wanted to erase any mention of Emperor Gaius Caligula from historical records. His reputation wasn’t just built on extravagance and debauchery; it was equally marked by governing the Roman Empire through intimidation and dread.
It comes as no surprise that his rule endured for just four years and ultimately met with assassination. The plot to assassinate him was orchestrated by the Praetorian Guards, a select group within the Roman imperial guard. When your own personal protectors conspire against you, it’s a testament to the severity of your actions.
The urban center adorned with numerous water features
Lately, the designation “The City of Fountains” may have been acquired by Kansas City, with Rome having held this distinction previously. This city boasts a total of 2000 fountains. It’s worth noting that Kansas City recently took on this title because all 200 of its fountains are currently operational.
Many of the fountains in Rome, understandably, are not functioning due to their considerable age. Originally, these fountains were constructed for the purpose of channeling water beyond the city limits. Among the most ancient is The Fountain in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, believed to have been erected in the 8th century, as historical sources suggest.
Expansion of the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum played a crucial role in the Roman era as a bustling hub. Initially designed as a marketplace where merchants could trade their wares, it essentially served as the city’s central marketplace. As Rome grew and expanded, this marketplace evolved into a vibrant and bustling area, ultimately becoming the heart of the city itself.
It became evident that the marketplace needed to expand to accommodate the growing city. This expansion led to the addition of significant structures such as the Temple of Saturn and the Senate House to the Roman Forum. Consequently, a short stroll from these edifices would lead you to the original Roman Forum.
A plethora of water sources
One of Rome’s standout features is its abundance of fountains. While not all of them are operational, with approximately 2000 fountains scattered throughout the city, one thing is certain – there is an ample supply of drinking water. If you’re planning a visit to Rome, be sure to bring a reusable water bottle for your convenience.
Those who have experienced Rome will likely recall the act of seeking out the closest water source, a common sight throughout the city, to enjoy the refreshingly cool water. The only lament is the scarcity of public restrooms in a place where such a convenience would be equally appreciated. Alas, one can’t have it all.
Feline Welfare
Although ancient Egypt is renowned for its reverence for cats, this tradition extended to the Roman Empire as well. Following the Roman Empire’s conquest of Egypt in the first century, it assimilated certain customs from Egypt, including the veneration of cats. Harming cats was strictly prohibited, and this practice persisted over time.
Subsequently, the city enacted Law 281, which stipulates that causing harm to a cat is a punishable offense. Cats enjoy the freedom to reside wherever they please, are entitled to access food at refuge centers, and local residents have the authority to sterilize female cats. Being a cat in Rome is indeed quite favorable.
The Pasta Museum
In which other country would you anticipate discovering a pasta museum if not Italy? Certainly, and within Italy, the most renowned city for it, Rome. Named the Museo Nazionale Della Pasta Alimentari (National Museum of Pasta), this institution’s history dates back even further than you might imagine – all the way to 1824. That’s undeniably remarkable.
The Pasta Museum is under the ownership of the Agnesi family, who have a rich history in pasta production. So, if you ever wish to deepen your understanding of pasta or explore a unique aspect of history, why not consider visiting the Pasta Museum the next time you find yourself in Rome?
The group of seven prominent hills
Seven holds a unique significance, particularly for those who are superstitious or interested in numbers and numerology. It’s also a prime number, which means it can’t be formed by multiplying two other numbers together, a quality that makes it relatively rare. Perhaps the number’s specialness is further emphasized by the fact that the city of Rome has been constructed upon seven hills, contributing to its enduring legacy throughout history and suggesting its continued endurance.
What’s intriguing is that the confines of Rome are defined by these seven hills: Aventine, Caelian, Capitoline, Quirinal, Viminal, Esquiline, and Palatine. The city’s initial foundation was laid on Palatine Hill, but it has expanded significantly since then. If you ever wonder about the demarcation of Rome’s boundaries, just keep these seven hills in mind – they signify where the city starts and ends.
Hidden Corridor
Who can resist the allure of a concealed passageway? It’s no wonder that even in one of the world’s oldest cities, Rome, there exists such a hidden route. Technically, this clandestine passage leads from Rome to another sovereign state, the Vatican City. While it may not be entirely astonishing that it connects to the Vatican, the mere presence of a secret passage in Rome still holds an undeniable sense of wonder.
Castel Sant’Angelo was originally constructed as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian. From there, an extension known as Passetto del Borgo was built, serving as a covert passage that monks could utilize to seek refuge within Castel Sant’Angelo during perilous periods.
The Massive Blaze in Rome
In the era of Emperor Nero’s rule, the Circus Maximus, the ancient chariot racing arena whose ruins are still visitable today, was engulfed in flames. The fire raged within the city of Rome for the initial six days, followed by an additional three days of the city being consumed by the relentless inferno and billowing smoke.
The exact origin of the fire remains a mystery, with speculations pointing fingers in various directions. Some have accused Emperor Nero himself, who reputedly played a musical instrument while Rome burned, while others have cast suspicion on a faction of Christians. This infamous fire has sparked extensive debate and has been a source of inspiration for numerous artistic creations.
The Most Renowned Emperor in Roman History
The story of Julius Caesar is widely recognized for two primary factors: his achievements and his demise. Julius Caesar was an exceptional military strategist, with notable qualities encompassing his decisiveness as a leader, his strong rapport with his soldiers, and his unwavering determination to battle against unfavorable odds.
As previously noted, Caesar’s exceptional rapport with his troops was so profound that he ascended to the position of Roman dictator with their unwavering support. However, this eventually proved to be his downfall, as trusted associates like Brutus felt compelled to resort to assassination in order to restore the Roman Empire to a republic.
Sanitary Paper in Ancient Rome
Certain individuals have a deep affinity for historical films, often harboring the belief that they would find greater contentment if they could dwell in bygone eras. The notion of residing in the enchanting early 1920s, adorned in elegant flapper attire, may seem idyllic to some. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that period films do not always provide an unvarnished depiction of the harsh realities associated with historical living.
Even though toilet paper was already in existence during the Roman Age, it wasn’t the customary choice for hygiene. Romans, in fact, favored wet sponges or plain water for this purpose. While the latter option may not seem all that unappealing, the idea of using wet sponges as an alternative to toilet paper certainly lacks the romantic appeal, making a return to the past less enticing.
The steed of Emperor Caligula
At times, one observes individuals indulging their pets in such lavish ways that it might appear to be a practice exclusive to contemporary times. However, this kind of behavior is not a modern invention. In fact, when it comes to extravagance, modern individuals have nothing on Caligula. Emperor Gaius Caligula’s horse, Incitatus, could very well be the most pampered horse in the annals of history.
Although toilet paper had been devised by the time of the Roman Empire, it was not the prevalent choice. Romans, instead, leaned towards employing damp sponges or plain water for personal hygiene. While the latter option may not be particularly repulsive, contemplating the use of wet sponges as a substitute for toilet paper lacks the romanticized allure, which might dissuade any yearning for a return to the past.
Days spanning a duration of 12 hours
Frequently, we lament the scarcity of hours available in a day. Nevertheless, it’s worth considering that we have a full 24-hour day, especially when you contemplate that the ancient Romans adhered to 12-hour days. In fact, as you traverse the city, you might come across sundials that delineate a mere 12 hours each day in ancient Rome.
An illustration of this is the Solarium Augusti, an obelisk-shaped sundial located near the Meridiana Di Augusto, which served as a timekeeping device in the city. It’s possible that life was less hectic back then, and a full 24 hours weren’t deemed necessary. When you find yourself in Rome, consider paying a visit to the Solarium Augusti.
The Original McDonald’s Restaurant
Near the Spanish Steps, situated within the Piazza di Spagna, which translates to “Square of Spain,” there is a McDonald’s establishment discreetly nestled among the neighboring street stores and shops. This particular McDonald’s holds the distinction of being the inaugural franchise to be established in Italy.
The restaurant was formally inaugurated in 1968, although it faced significant opposition during its construction. While many visitors to Italy opt for indulging in local pizza and pasta, if you happen to be in the vicinity of the Spanish Steps and crave a touch of familiarity or a classic favorite, why not consider visiting the very first McDonald’s established in Italy?
Strength of the Armed Forces
It is well-known that the Roman Empire did not mess around when it came to its military. Some of the best military tacticians were Roman generals, including Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus – aka Pompey the Great – Marcus Antonius – on whom Shakespeare based his “Anthony and Cleopatra” – and the most famous of them all, Julius Caesar.
It wasn’t just the prowess of Rome’s generals; the Romans also built an extensive road network that facilitated the rapid movement of their troops during times of conflict. Thanks to this network of roads, Roman soldiers could march up to 50 kilometers in a single day. Strolling through the streets of Rome today can transport you back in time, with echoes of its ancient infrastructure still evident.
The City of Rome Did Not Emerge Overnight
Most likely, everyone has come across this proverb at some point in their life. When someone aims to offer words of motivation, they may invoke the age-old saying, “Rome Wasn’t Built in A Day.” Considering that Rome’s origins trace back to 753 BC, successive centuries witnessed the construction of numerous landmarks in this timeless city.
Notable additions encompass the Pantheon, Saint Peter’s Basilica, the Spanish Steps, and the Victor Emmanuel II monument. Just how many days did it take for the construction of Rome to reach completion? The astonishing answer is approximately 1,010,450 days. This remarkable duration is a testament to why Rome remains a coveted dream destination for countless individuals and underscores the undeniable reality that building such a city was a monumental task that extended far beyond a single day.
The Metropolis of Obelisks
When one contemplates obelisks, thoughts typically turn to Egypt, particularly ancient Egypt. Such an association wouldn’t be incorrect. However, it might come as a surprise that obelisks are more abundant in Rome than in their original Egyptian homeland. There are just over 20 obelisks scattered across the globe.
Out of the roughly 20 obelisks worldwide, five are located in Egypt, while Rome boasts a remarkable 13 of them. It could be said that the Romans were greatly influenced by the Egyptian pharaohs, albeit their inspiration manifested as the act of acquiring and transporting these monumental structures back to their own city rather than constructing new ones. Additionally, obelisks can be found in cities like Paris, New York, and London.
Casualties
Due to the lethality and brutality of the games conducted within the Colosseum, there was a significant loss of human life. Despite the fact that these battles were not for the faint-hearted, it’s clear that the ancient Romans were far from being faint-hearted themselves. Gladiator contests enjoyed immense popularity, regularly attracting crowds averaging around 65,000 spectators.
It certainly appears that these spectators took pleasure in the ferocity of these contests. It is estimated that around half a million individuals met their demise within the Colosseum’s arena, solidifying it as undeniably one of the bloodiest chapters in the history of sports. Rome’s history is marked by its darker periods, and the era of gladiators is a significant component of that somber legacy.
Cappuccino Delights in the Heart of Rome
Italy is nearly synonymous with coffee and coffee aficionados. While an ongoing debate rages on about who brews the finest cup of coffee, there’s certainly no lack of coffee appreciation in the city of Rome. However, the same level of adoration doesn’t extend to cappuccinos in their homeland. Although we may adore this beverage, the cultural perspective in Italy varies significantly.
This isn’t to imply that the locals don’t enjoy cappuccinos; they do, but there’s a restriction – cappuccinos should be ordered before 11 a.m. So, if you’re a coffee enthusiast, Rome (as well as most of Italy) is your ideal destination. However, if you’re craving a cappuccino, be mindful of the “cappuccino curfew.”
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre
Even if you haven’t had the chance to journey to Rome, you’re likely familiar with one of its most iconic landmarks – the Colosseum, a circular amphitheater situated just to the east of the Roman Forum. The Colosseum’s renown is widespread, with many associating it with the historic gladiator battles that occurred within its circular structure.
Many may not be aware that it holds the distinction of being included among the modern wonders of the world, alongside the Great Wall of China and Christ the Redeemer. Despite its age, having been erected in 80 CE, the Colosseum’s enduring significance secures its place on this prestigious list of wonders.
The Metropolis with the Highest Number of Churches
While Rwanda may claim the spotlight for having the most churches per capita, it’s Vatican City that boasts the highest number of churches per country. Predictably, its neighboring city, Rome, takes the title for the metropolis with the greatest number of churches. Furthermore, Roman churches are renowned for their exceptional and exquisite architectural design.
Renowned Baroque architects like Bernini and Borromini were the brilliant minds behind magnificent churches such as Sant’Andrea al Quirinale, Santa Maria Della Vittoria, and Sant’Ivo Alla Sapienza. If you’ve had the opportunity to visit Rome, you’ve likely encountered these awe-inspiring structures, and if you haven’t, they are an absolute must-see.
The Secret Art Gallery of Rome
To begin your journey, you’ll need to locate Piazza Santi Apostoli, which can be somewhat challenging for tourists. However, nestled within the courtyard of this square, a concealed gem awaits – the Galleria Sciarra. Much like stumbling upon a hidden treasure, discovering this gallery is a truly rewarding experience.
This hidden gem consists of a collection of Art Nouveau frescoes. The courtyard itself was constructed in the 19th century, and the artist behind these numerous frescoes was Giuseppe Cellini. The majority of these masterpieces adhere to a thematic focus, portraying women and conveying concepts related to virtue and modesty.
Antique Periodicals
Undoubtedly, the invention of the printing press took place much later, specifically in Medieval China. Nonetheless, the ancient Romans had their own unique method of disseminating news. They employed plant materials to circulate information concerning military developments, wedding and obituary announcements, and any noteworthy tidbits that would be of interest to the local Roman populace.
These were known as Acta Diurna, which translates to “Daily Acts.” Therefore, although not as sophisticated as modern newspapers, the Romans did employ a form of an ancient system for disseminating local news. In yet another aspect, they were pioneers, even in the realm of press dissemination.
The Origination of Pizza Wasn’t in Rome
Pizza is closely associated with Italy, and when you envision Italy, images of pizza and pasta likely come to mind. However, this beloved dish doesn’t originate from the country’s most iconic city, but rather from a southern city, Naples, known as Napoli in Italian.
In reality, Italians owe a debt of gratitude to the Spanish exploration of South America, as it was during the return voyage that they introduced tomatoes to Italy. Consequently, the city of Naples began crafting its distinctive dish, the Napoletana Pizza. Honestly, the historical origins don’t get much more intriguing than this, and the taste is a world apart from what we typically encounter elsewhere.
The Opening Ceremony of the Colosseum
Nearly two millennia after its construction, the Colosseum remains one of the initial destinations for tourists visiting Rome. This elliptical amphitheater continues to attract large crowds today. Nevertheless, one can only imagine the unprecedented attention it garnered when it was originally inaugurated.
Indeed, it was an experience quite unlike anything we encounter in contemporary times. In 81 CE, Titus, the son of Roman Emperor Vespasian, presided over the grand opening of the Colosseum, a jubilant celebration that spanned 100 days. This inaugural extravaganza featured various events, including thrilling gladiator battles. And when we mentioned “wild,” it wasn’t an exaggeration – a multitude of wild animals were utilized in these combat spectacles.
Rome Houses Its Independent City-State
Indeed, Vatican City may not be the largest country, but it is undeniably remarkable that the city of Rome encloses its very own sovereign nation. Vatican City is unquestionably an independent country, complete with its own legal system governed by the Canon of the Catholic Church.
This signifies that Vatican City is a distinct nation with its own residents, making it a destination of great importance. In terms of population, Vatican City had a total of 825 inhabitants according to 2019 statistics. Despite being an extremely diminutive state, the fact that Rome encompasses its very own independent country remains truly remarkable.
Citizenship and Departure
One admirable trait of the Roman Empire and its historic epicenter, Rome, was its relative openness to immigration. If you underwent sufficient training and service in the Roman army, you were granted citizenship – a reasonable arrangement, especially considering that Rome was the coveted destination at the start of the ancient millennium, offering opportunities that most neighboring nations couldn’t match.
The Mouth of Truth
Positioned to the left of the portico of the Santa Maria in Cosmedin church in the Piazza Della Bocca Della Verità, there stands a marble statue known as the Bocca Della Verità. When translated directly, the name “Bocca Della Verità” means “Mouth of Truth.”
The legend associated with this statue suggests that if a person placed their hand inside it and it was “bitten off,” it meant they were not speaking the truth. The effectiveness of this method remains uncertain, but this marble mask serves as evidence that the notion of lie detection is truly ancient. So, alongside Italian Pinocchio and his ever-growing nose, we now have this peculiar piece of Italian lore. It appears that Italians may have had their reservations about trusting people, it seems.
Not Suitable for Those with a Weak Stomach
Renowned British director Ridley Scott vividly depicted a widely known Roman pastime – gladiator battles. Staged within the grandeur of the Colosseum and witnessed by multitudes, these contests were both immensely popular and incredibly brutal. Typically, gladiators were individuals enslaved and owned by Roman masters.
These gladiators were predominantly employed for the sake of entertainment, a fact that the movie accurately portrayed. Moreover, it’s true that initially, there were no regulations in place, which meant that fights could easily spiral out of control. In fact, these battles were so merciless that in the early days, gladiators who met defeat were condemned to death – making it an ordeal not meant for those with a weak constitution.
